Pointer instrument

Abstract

A pointer instrument for a motor vehicle includes a pointer drive for deflecting a carrier body. A pointer which is visible in an indication is provided on the carrier body. An optical waveguide element is arranged on that side of the carrier body which is remote from an observer. Light from at least one light source is introduced into the optical waveguide element which extends along the movement path of the pointer. Light emerging from the optical waveguide element enters into the pointer and / or the carrier body, and the pointer is formed such that it is illuminated by light emerging from the optical waveguide element.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 696,705, filed Jul. 5, 2005, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The present application also claims priority to DE 10 2004 060 693, filed Dec. 16, 2004.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The invention relates to a pointer instrument, in particular for a motor vehicle, having a pointer drive for the deflection of a carrier body which can be rotated about an axis of rotation and on which is provided a pointer which is visible in an indication and is mounted outside the axis of rotation.[0003]In pointer instruments of this type, the pointer is typically illuminated to ensure a problem-free reading even with diminishing light at twilight or at night. The arrangement of the pointer at a carrier body furthermore affords the advantage of being able to configure the carrier body in the form of a ring, for example, and in this way, g...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention relates to a pointer instrument that uses an optical waveguide element to illuminate the pointer. The optical waveguide element can be positioned on the carrier body or the pointer, and can be designed to guide light from a light source to the pointer. The invention offers the advantage of eliminating structural space restrictions and ensuring excellent illumination for readability. The invention can be used with existing light sources, such as light emitting diodes, and can be designed to indicate measured values or to provide a high-contrast representation of the digits. The invention also allows for the use of a flexible scale that can be moved along the movement path of the pointer.

Problems solved by technology

Furthermore, the structural depth of the carrier body is increased at least in sections on account of the required precautions for the active illumination, so that structural space restrictions in the region of the movement path of the pointer are added as a further disadvantage.

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